Wound & Sore Prevention
Protect your health by preventing chronic wounds with help from the specialists at Adventist HealthCare.
Risk Factors for Chronic Wounds
You may develop a wound that won't heal if you have:
- Certain health conditions, such as cancer, diabetes or heart and vein diseases
- History of chronic ulcers
- Injury (trauma), such as a burn
- Lack of nutrition from your diet
- Poor circulation, or blood flow
- Multiple surgeries
- Obesity
- Treatments like chemotherapy, radiotherapy or certain medications
- Trouble moving (immobility) or lack of exercise
- Weakened immune system
How to Prevent Wounds
Talk to a primary care provider about wound prevention if you or a person you care for are at risk. Your doctor may recommend:
- Avoiding hot water, fire, sharp objects and other hazards
- Being as active as possible
- Checking your body for sores regularly
- Eating a healthy diet
- Losing weight if you're overweight
- Managing health conditions
- Practicing healthy hygiene habits and skin care
- Quitting smoking if you smoke
- Treating wounds right away with first aid
Learn about when to see an expert for care and medical treatments.
Preventing Diabetic Ulcers
Diabetes can make it hard for your body to heal and increases your risk of foot problems. Work closely with your Adventist HealthCare team to control blood sugar levels and learn how to take care of your feet. At home:
- Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters or other injuries.
- Protect your feet from injury.
- Wash your feet daily.
When to See a Wound Specialist
Talk to your primary care provider or request a free consultation from our team if you have a wound that doesn't heal on its own in three weeks and/or risk factors for developing chronic wounds.
When you visit providers with advanced training in wound care, you can heal more quickly and enjoy better quality of life.
